Crassula ovata, commonly known as the Classic Jade or Money Tree, is a popular succulent with a tree-like structure and glossy green leaves that may develop red edges when exposed to bright sunlight.
It’s known for its easy care and the belief that it brings good luck and prosperity to its owners, especially in Asian culture. In this blog, we will explore how to care for Crassula ovata to keep it thriving in your home or office.
Basic Care Information
| Aspects | Crassula ovata (Classic Jade, Money Tree) |
| Appearance : | Tree-like structure with fleshy, glossy green leaves and sometimes red edges. |
| Light requirements : | Full sun to partial shade. |
| Mature Size: | Grows up to 3 feet tall and 24 inches wide. |
| Watering Schedule : | Water when the soil is dry, usually once every 2-3 weeks. |
| Fertilize Schedule : | Feed once a month during the growing season with diluted succulent fertilizer |
| Dormancy Period : | Dormant during summer; reduce watering. |
| USDA Hardiness Zone : | USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, tolerates temperatures down to 20°F (-6.7°C). |
| Propagation Techniques : | Easily propagated from leaves or stem cuttings. |
| Toxicity : | Mildly toxic to pets if ingested. |
Watering Needs
Classic Jade is highly drought-tolerant, making it an easy plant to care for. For a 4-5 inch pot, water around 1/8 to 1/4 cup every 2-3 weeks, ensuring the soil dries out completely between watering.
During the summer dormancy, reduce watering to prevent root rot. It’s important to follow a proper watering technique to avoid overwatering.
Light Requirements
Crassula ovata thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. If grown indoors, placing it near a bright, sunny window helps maintain its vibrant foliage and enhances the red edges on its leaves.
If natural sunlight is limited, consider using a grow-light for indoor succulents to keep your plant healthy and vibrant.
Fertilizing Schedule
During the growing season (spring to fall), feed your Crassula ovata once a month with a balanced succulent fertilizer. For a 4-5 inch pot, use 1/8 teaspoon of fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Avoid fertilizing during the summer dormancy period to prevent overfeeding. To ensure your plant gets the nutrients it needs, check out our fertilize guide for succulents.
Propagation Tips
Propagating Crassula ovata is easy, whether you choose to propagate from leaves or stem cuttings. Simply allow the cuttings to callous over for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil. For beginners, our basic propagation guide for succulents provides a step-by-step guide to ensure success.
Advanced Care
- Soil Requirements: Crassula ovata grows best in well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. This prevents water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to rot.
- Container Choice: It looks stunning in decorative pots, adding a touch of nature to any indoor space. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent excess water from accumulating.
- Pest Management: While Crassula ovata is generally pest-resistant, it can occasionally attract mealybugs or scale. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations with neem oil or rubbing alcohol.
Unique Traits
Crassula ovata is not just a beautiful plant, but it’s also steeped in symbolism, especially in Asian cultures where it is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
Its tree-like structure with fleshy, glossy green leaves makes it a perfect statement piece for homes, offices, and indoor gardens. However, it’s mildly toxic to pets, so ensure it’s placed out of their reach.
